Retired Pastor Earl Jones died in February. Join us in praying for his wife, Betty, and their family. His daughter Deborah Jones and his granddaughter, Monica Jones, are members of the GC Durham church plant team.
We share in their grief and in their hope of resurrection. Deborah shared the following obituary.
Cards can be sent to:
Betty Jones
168 North Gaines Street
Southern Pines, NC 28387
Earl Jones passed away peacefully at home on February 26, 2026, at the age of 84. Born on July 11, 1941, Earl lived a life defined by strength of character, steady determination, deep faith, and unwavering love for his family and community.
He attended schools in North Carolina and New York, experiences that helped shape his broad perspective and keen sense of purpose. Earl continued his education at North Carolina Central University. Answering the call to serve his country, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps for a brief stint.
Earl dedicated many years of his professional life to Ingersoll Rand, from which he retired after faithful and committed service. Known for his strong work ethic and leadership, he earned the respect of colleagues and friends alike.
Most importantly, Earl devoted his life to his faith and to serving others. He retired as pastor of Grace Communion Fayetteville, where he provided spiritual guidance, encouragement, and compassion to countless individuals and families. His ministry reflected his deep love for the triune God and his unwavering commitment to uplifting others. His greatest joy was telling others about the goodness of God. He often said, “I am who I am because of the great I AM.”
Earl was also involved in civic engagement and community advancement. He was a member of the West Southern Pines Civics Club and the NAACP, supporting efforts that promoted equality, education, and opportunity for all.
Above all, Earl was a devoted husband. He was married to his beloved wife, Betty, for 60 wonderful years — a testament to enduring love, commitment, and partnership. They took the words “til death do us part” literally.
Earl found immense joy in traveling and staying active through walking and weightlifting. He had a deep love for learning and devoted much of his time to studying history, especially African American history. He enjoyed watching the History and Military channels, reading, and engaging in thoughtful conversations. A dedicated collector, he took pride in stamp collecting and maintained an extensive music collection that reflected his wide-ranging tastes. He especially cherished conversing in Spanish with his granddaughter, finding joy in sharing language, laughter, and connection across generations. He was also a loyal sports fan who proudly supported Georgetown Hoyas men’s basketball team and the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Earl was preceded in death by his parents, Will and Bessie Diggs and Geneva Washington; his beloved daughter, Dionne Michelle Jones; and his brother-in-law, Willie Gillis.
He leaves to cherish his memory his devoted wife, Betty; his children, Deborah Jones and Earl Maurice Jones (Rosie); his cherished grandchildren, Monica Jones and Charleigh Williams; his brothers-in-law, James Gillis (Janet), Donnie Hines, Ollie Hines (Libby), Woodrow Hines (Clara), Leon Hines, Jerry Hines (Esther), Scottie Hines, and Johnny Hines (Thomasine); his sisters-in-law, Carolyn Jenkins, Margaret Gillis and Sandra Jones, Stephanie Davis (Michael); and a host of extended family members, friends, and loved ones.
Though his passing leaves a profound void, his legacy of faith, strength, compassion, and love will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew him. He will be deeply missed and forever cherished.
Dear GCI Family and Friends,
